Autistic Barbie released with sensory-focused design and accessories.

Mattel released its first autistic Barbie developed with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, featuring sensory-friendly clothing, articulated joints, a gentle side gaze, and accessories such as noise-canceling headphones; the company said it will donate more than 1,000 dolls to pediatric hospitals.

Mattel has introduced its first autistic Barbie, developed in collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) after an 18-month process. The company says the doll is part of the Fashionista line and was designed to reflect real experiences of some autistic people. Design choices aim to address sensory needs and communication differences through both physical features and accessories. ASAN’s executive director described the collaboration as a chance to share guidance so the doll represents and celebrates autistic people. Notable features: - Articulated wrist and elbow joints to allow natural hand movements and gestures that some autistic people use, such as stimming or hand flapping. - A gentle side gaze intended to reflect how some autistic people avoid direct eye contact. - Sensory-focused accessories including pink noise-canceling headphones, a functioning fidget spinner, and a tablet showing symbol-based augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) apps. - Clothing designed for sensory comfort: a loose-fitting, flowy A-line dress and flat-soled purple shoes intended to reduce fabric contact and provide balance support. - Mattel said it will donate more than 1,000 autistic Barbie dolls to pediatric hospitals across the United States. Summary: The doll expands representation within Barbie’s Fashionista line and reflects specific design guidance from ASAN intended to mirror some real-world experiences of autistic people. Undetermined at this time.